Any R53 experts here?

Basically my junk DD is going to need to be replaced soon and the E30 is ending up way too focused to want to daily everyday. I had considered finding a nice E30 to make a clean DD out of, but I'd really like something different.

It seems as though early model Cooper S's are coming down into a reasonable price for decent mileage, good condition cars. Not to mention good gas mileage, but still fun to drive, for my ~48 mile round trip commute.

What are the common problems? Are parts outrageous? Are they durable/reliable? etc etc, what do you know about them?